In 2026, the United States celebrates 250 years since the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. To mark the occasion the Arizona America250 Commission has been established to coordinate the commemoration of the anniversary and Arizonans’ impact on the past, present and future of America
As part of that celebration, it will host several events at state parks throughout Arizona.
Laura Terech, executive director of the commission, said the celebration is an opportunity to reflect on the past 250 years..
“It’s also a really unique moment to come together in the present and have that discussion about what we hope for the next 250 years,” she said.
Here are some of the events that America250 is hosting in Arizona:
Riordan Mansion Special Tour: Historic Milton Walking Tour
Where: Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, 409 W. Riordan Road, Flagstaff
When: Sunday, May 10, 9 – 10:30 a.m.
What: A 90-minute guided 2 mile walk stretching from the Riordan Mansion to the Arizona Lumber and Timber Company and ending in the town of Milton, Ariz. This tour is recommended for ages 12 and up.
Cost: Tickets are $22 per person and must be purchased in advance
America250 Celebration at Patagonia Lake
Where: Patagonia Lake State Park, 400 Patagonia Lake Road
When: Saturday, May 16, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
What: A festive gathering featuring music and food that captures the diversity and spirit that shaped America. Musical performances include traditional Mariachi and folklorico. There will also be food trucks and a piñata for the kids.
Cost: The event is free, but standard park entry fees apply.
Archaeology Hike at Red Rock State Park
Where: Red Rock State Park, 4050 Red Rock Loop Road, Sedona
When: Sunday, May 17, 1 p.m.
What: A guided hike through Red Rock State Park that will showcase various archaeological features from Native Americans. The hike will take between one and a half and two hours, with an elevation gain of around 250 feet. Trails are easy to moderate and the hike will begin with a short presentation in the park’s theater. Reservations are required
Cost: The hike is free, but standard park entry fees apply.
Blooming Saguaro Hike
Where: Catalina State Park, 11570 N. Oracle Road
When: Fridays in May, 7:30. – 9 a.m.
What: A guided hike through Catalina State Park where visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of the saguaro blooming season. Hikes vary between four trails from easy to moderate difficulty. Hikers meet at the trailhead picnic area.
Cost: The guided hikes are free, but standard park entry fees apply.
Thank the Stars Above at Picacho Peak
Where: Picacho Peak State Park, 15520 Picacho Peak Road
When: Saturday, June 20 at 8 p.m. and Saturday, August 22 at 7:30 p.m.
What: A 45-minute guided program focused on stars, constellations and their significance to human history. Bring warm layers for the chilly desert night and a chair if you want to sit. Meet at the sunset day use area.
Music in the Mountains Concert Series
Where: Catalina State Park, 11570 N. Oracle Road
When: The first Saturday of May and June at 5 p.m. and first Saturday of July and August at 6 p.m.
What: A series of concerts by various artists and groups at the Trailhead stage in Catalina State Park. Music will include indie, rock, folk, blues and country.
Cost: All concerts are free, but standard park entry fees apply.
4th of July Celebration at Fool Hollow Lake
Where: Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area, 1500 Fools Hollow Road, Show Low
When: Saturday, July 4, 6 – 8:30 p.m.
What: An Independence Day celebration with family activities. Show up at the Adair Amphitheatre at 6 p.m. for a birds of prey exhibition, featuring a bald eagle. Visitors can also receive glow sticks and American flags. Fireworks start at 8 and will be visible from multiple spots in the park.
Cost: The event is free, but standard park entry fees apply.
Arizona Sonoran News is a news service of the University of Arizona School of Journalism.
